Why moving with your dog doesn’t have to be stressful: 4 simple tips
Be prepared for challenges when you move with your dog.
There are boxes to pack, new jobs to find, moving companies to hire, and loved ones to say goodbye to. People rarely look back on moving day and say, “Remember how much fun that was?”
It can be an especially stressful time if you have a furry friend for a roommate. Not only do you have to find a new home or apartment, but it also needs to be pet-friendly.
Plus, you want to make a move as easy for your dog as possible.
With a little bit of planning and expert advice, moving to a new city can be as easy as a quick stroll around the dog park.
Do a scouting report
Whether you’re moving for a new job or just looking for a change of scenery, take the time to learn just how dog-friendly your prospective new home is.
Not only do you want a location with ample designated walking paths, green space, and dog parks (Chicago and San Diego both fit the bill), but you also want to pay attention to local ordinances that might prevent certain breeds or sizes of dogs from living in rented or multiunit dwellings, and consider reliable local moving and storage options to make the transition smoother for both you and your pet.
If you’re thinking about a highly dog-friendly city like Austin, consider using Rent.com’s apartment database, which allows you to search and view pet-friendly apartments easily. You can typically get a good sense of how much a town appreciates its pets by looking at the quality of pet-friendly apartments in popular neighborhoods.
Also, be sure to find out what regulations — if any — your new state may have for pets. Many states require a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection for some animals.
The goal is to make sure only healthy animals travel across state lines, and you could get a fine or face other penalties for not having one.
If possible, make a trial run
For long-distance moves, it’s not always possible to bring the dog along to get a good look (or sniff) at your new home, but it’s certainly ideal.
This is a great opportunity to see how your dog reacts in a new setting so you can develop a plan for moving day.
Does she seem to favor a specific room in the house? Or is there a lot of noise coming from outside that seems to make her anxious?
Go for a walk around the block, and if you see other dog walkers, ask about the neighborhood to learn if there’s anything you and your dog should be aware of.
Who knows? The two of you might even end up with a new set of friends.
If you also have a cat, you can learn about how to travel with your cat in the car here.
Start small
When you arrive at your new apartment on moving day, put your dog in one room, like your bedroom, to ease the transition. Let him get used to a small area before overwhelming him with the whole house.
Even if it takes a few days, make sure he’s comfortable before introducing him to other rooms. Set aside a few familiar objects and have them in the room when your dog arrives.
Buy him a new toy, so he associates excitement with the new place.
Maintain regular feeding and walking schedules. A little bit of structure will go a long way.
Also, initially providing him with his own space will separate him from the commotion of dropped boxes and slamming doors.
Stay close, but not too close
During the first few days of the move, you want to be there for your dog as much as possible.
They need to know that the location has changed, but you are the same. Even though you’ll have tons of errands to run and a new city to explore, try to be in the apartment as much as possible during the first 48 hours.
Offer support for your anxious dog, but don’t coddle them. This could reinforce negative behaviors. It’s a balance.
Be available, but give your furry roommate their space. Within a few days, your new apartment will start to feel like home for both of you.
Final thoughts on how to move with your dog
Moving with your dog can be a challenging experience, but with careful planning and a little patience, it can also be a rewarding one.
By taking the time to find a pet-friendly neighborhood, preparing your dog for the transition, and creating a comforting environment in your new home, you can help ease their stress and make the move smoother for both of you.
Remember to maintain routines, provide familiar items, and give your furry friend the space and support they need during this adjustment period.
As you explore your new surroundings together, you’ll have the opportunity to create wonderful memories and strengthen your bond.
Embrace the adventure, and soon enough, your new place will feel like home for you and your four-legged companion.
